The Euler Totient function is the focus of this month’s lesson, and is the final piece of the puzzle required before we reach the RSA encryption algorithm in June.
Tag Archives: education
Math From Scratch 20: The Chinese Remainder Theorem
We are finally able to cover the Chinese Remainder Theorem, one of the oldest recorded mathematical theorems and one that is of great importance to many computer science applications.
Math From Scratch 19: Solving Linear Diophantine Equations
We are now equipped to define and solve linear diophantine equations. We are on track to cover RSA encryption algorithms in June.
Relativity: Call for questions and proofreaders
This summer will see our next Summer School, this time dealing with both the special and general theories of relativity. It will come in two versions: one will be devoid of algebra, just as the quantum mechanics series was, and the other will have the mathematical details included. I’m looking for two things from our readers to help out: the first is a list of questions you would like to see answered, and the second is a group of proofreaders ready and willing to read through this before it becomes posted for all. If you have questions you would like to see answered, please post them in the comments. If you would like to proofread, please e-mail me directly.
Math From Scratch 18: The Euclidean Algorithm
Our teaching tidbits and Math From Scratch are overlapping for the first time with the Euclidean algorithm. If all goes as planned, RSA encryption algorithms will be derived and explained in June.
Deciding the Summer School 2013 topic
As most readers are aware, Bureau 42 does annual summer school sessions. In 2010, we covered quantum mechanics without the math, and in 2011 we covered assessment theory including formulae but not derivations. In 2012, we will cover Einstein’s Theory of Relativity (both special and general), and we will do it in a slightly different fashion: two downloadable files will be offered with each lesson. One version will be devoid of math, as the quantum mechanics series was, while the other will have complete mathematical details in addition to the conceptual lessons. What do you want us to cover in 2013? More after the break.
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Math From Scratch 17: Modular Arithmetic
It turns out there needed to be more groundwork than I had anticipated before hitting the Chinese Remainder Theorem. This lesson introduces modular arithmetic, and the Chinese Remainder Theorem will be covered later. I will also be taking a detour to cover all of the math inherent to RSA encryption algorithms in the coming months.
Math From Scratch 16: Divisibility Rules (for base 10)
The results for testing numbers for divisibility in base 10 are laid out here. It appears we’ll be reaching the rational numbers at some point in the spring of 2012.
Math From Scratch 15: The Fundamental Theorem of Arithmetic
The fifteenth lesson of the Math From Scratch series, dealing with the Fundamental Theorem of Arithmetic, is available here.
Math From Scratch schedule changes
As some of you know, I have bilateral elbow tendinitis. As a result, I need to reduce the amount of time spent sitting in front of a keyboard. Unfortunately, this has forced me to slow down on the “Math From Scratch” series. From this point on, new lessons will appear on the first of each month, with lesson 15 due November 1. July and August, the “Summer school” month, will be skipped. Thus, there will now be ten lessons per year. Check the Bureau 42 calendar for updates.